Two former Chime Communications PR directors have left their agencies in the wake of Bell Pottinger's management buyout.

Former Bell Pottinger Group deputy chairman Paul Bell has been appointed at Albany Associates as director of business development, while Good Relations director Steve Marinker is leaving to join Euro RSCG PR as MD.

Bell worked on a number of Bell Pottinger’s high-profile international accounts, believed to include the agency’s US government work.

Albany provides comms strategies in ‘challenging and transitional environments’ such as Iraq, Sudan and Somalia.

Bell revealed that his appointment goes back to his time at Bell Pottinger, on whose behalf he forged a partnership with Albany that saw them enter Somalia together in 2010. While there, they established the team that supports the African Union’s UN-funded military mission.

PRWeek reported in May that Bell’s Bell Pottinger role had shifted to a contract basis, although it was understood that he would continue to work for the newly private agency.

Albany’s MD Dieter Loraine said of Bell’s appointment: ‘His skill set and impressive depth of experience ideally complement the innovative and dynamic work that Albany is proud to undertake in some of the world’s most challenging environments.’

Meanwhile, Marinker will report to Russ Lidstone, CEO, Euro RSCG London. Lidstone said: ‘Steve has a blend of experience across corporate, consumer and business categories. He will oversee the directors and be responsible for business development.’

Marinker will also assume the responsibilities of the departing consumer and healthcare lead Jo Grierson.